Best Easy Polenta con Ragù Recipe

Smooth polenta topped with a slow-simmered meat ragù is northern Italian comfort at its best. This high protein mediterranean family meal is hearty, satisfying, and freezer-friendly.

Cook 90 min Difficulty NORMAL 400 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean #family meal
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • cornmeal (polenta) 1.5 cups
  • whole milk 2 cups
  • water 3 cups
  • unsalted butter 2 tbsp
  • ground beef 1 lb
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • celery stalk 1 pieces
  • carrot 1 pieces
  • crushed tomatoes 1.5 cups
  • Parmesan cheese 0.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 3 tbsp
  • garlic 2 cloves
  • dried oregano 1 tsp
  • salt 1.5 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 40 g 40%
Protein 20 g 20%
Fat 15 g 34%
Serving size 340g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté until softened but not browned, about 6 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add garlic and ground beef to the pot, increase heat slightly, and cook, breaking up beef until browned, about 7 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, 1 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let the ragù simmer gently for at least 60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

  4. 4

    Meanwhile, bring water and milk to a gentle boil in a large saucepan. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal. Lower heat to medium-low and cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until thick and smooth, about 20-25 minutes.

  5. 5

    Stir in butter, remaining 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, and Parmesan cheese into the polenta. Keep warm over the lowest possible heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water if needed for creaminess.

  6. 6

    To serve, spoon a mound of creamy polenta onto each plate. Top generously with the hot ragù and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

Personalized Q&A
Q. Which ingredients define the flavor of Polenta con Ragù?
The defining flavors come from slow-cooked ground beef, aromatics like onion, celery, and carrot, and richly textured polenta made with milk, butter, and Parmesan. Olive oil, garlic, and oregano round out the classic Northern Italian taste profile.
Q. What is the most important cooking technique for this recipe?
Maintaining gentle heat during the long ragù simmer is essential for developing depth without burning. For the polenta, constant stirring over medium-low ensures a smooth, lump-free texture. Patience and attention are key.
Q. How can I prevent my polenta from becoming too thick or lumpy?
Gradually whisk cornmeal into boiling liquid to avoid clumping. Stirring consistently while cooking over moderate heat prevents lumps and maintains creaminess. If polenta thickens too much, add a splash of water and stir.
Q. What are the nutrition values per serving?
Each serving (340g) contains approximately 400 kcal, 40g carbohydrates (40% of calories), 20g protein (20%), and 15g fat (34%). This provides a hearty balance and qualifies as high-protein Mediterranean comfort food.
Q. Is this recipe suitable for a high-protein or Mediterranean diet?
Yes, with 20g protein per serving, lean beef, and olive oil, this dish fits well in both high-protein and Mediterranean-style eating patterns.
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